#United States #Plus Power #Energy Storage #Gorham

Maine's Trailblazing Battery Energy Storage Facility

In a significant stride towards energy innovation, Plus Power recently inaugurated Maine's first utility-scale battery energy storage facility in Gorham. This state-of-the-art project, called Cross Town Energy Storage, marks a pivotal advancement not only for the state but also for the New England region, as it becomes the largest of its kind on the ISO New England grid.

The Significance of Cross Town

Cross Town, with a capacity of 175 MW / 350 MWh, is designed to optimize energy use by absorbing excess energy produced during low demand periods. This stored energy becomes incredibly valuable during peak demand times, allowing for a balanced supply and demand. By doing this, Cross Town enhances the reliability and overall efficiency of the power grid, effectively curtailing energy price spikes that locals have experienced during extreme weather conditions.

Governor Janet Mills expressed her support during the inauguration, stating, "Today, Maine welcomed the largest energy storage project of its kind in New England, delivering real cost savings and reliable power for Maine. This project will help lower electricity costs by reducing the need for costly fossil fuels when the grid is strained, as we've seen during recent extreme cold weather."

Supporting Renewable Objectives

This groundbreaking venture plays a crucial role in achieving Maine's ambitious energy goals. The state aims to deploy 400 MW of battery energy storage by 2030, an objective that aligns perfectly with the increasing integration of renewable energy sources. Maine has committed to generating 90 percent of its electricity sales from renewables by 2030, ultimately striving for 100% by 2040.

Located on about 5 acres of land, the Cross Town facility interconnects with the Central Maine Power's 115kV Moshers substation, a strategic location that alleviates congestion within the transmission grid. This planning not only facilitates the transmission of wind power from Northern Maine but also addresses demand challenges in Southern Maine and Boston.

A Shift in Energy Dynamics

Cross Town is set to be a game changer for ISO New England, compensating for capacity losses due to the retirement of gas and other traditional power plants. Naveen Abraham, CEO of Plus Power, stated, "Plus Power is proud to operate another landmark facility in New England and further strengthen power reliability in the region."

This facility utilizes 156 units of Sungrow's PowerTitan battery energy storage system, which is well-suited for Maine's varied climate conditions. Interestingly, Plus Power’s collaboration with the local Cianbro Corporation for the facility's construction has bolstered regional employment and provided the community with insights into energy technology advancements.

A Proven Track Record

Cross Town isn't Plus Power’s only venture in New England; they have previously launched the 150 MW / 300 MWh Cranberry Point Energy Storage project in Carver, Massachusetts, which became operational in spring 2025. This prior project played an essential role during a heat-driven scarcity event, proving its reliability during high-demand conditions. With both Cross Town and Cranberry Point fully operational during extreme weather events, their capacity and efficiency have positioned them as vital resources for New England's energy needs.

Conclusion: The Future of Energy Storage

Plus Power continues to accelerate the deployment of battery energy storage systems across the United States, with an impressive portfolio that includes 11 GW of projects in over 20 states. Their ambition is to provide crucial energy capacity, enhance the integration of renewable resources, and deliver essential services aimed at modernizing the energy landscape.

In a world increasingly reliant on digital connectivity and energy resources, facilities like Cross Town Energy Storage are not just innovations; they are necessities for the sustainable energy future of Maine and beyond. As technology evolves and demand for renewable energy sources rises, Plus Power stands at the forefront, showcasing the undeniable potential of battery storage systems in combating climate change and shaping efficient energy markets.